Going to a Public Pool? Here’s What You Need to Know

It is the season of tanning and straw hats, sunglasses and salty curls, sand, SPF products and lots of smiles. It is the time when our leisure becomes more exciting and we can embrace different ideas just because the weather allows it. Whether you decide to jump in the car and have a one-night trip to a nearby tow or head to a month-long Eurotrip, you feel that everything is possible. However, some of us are stuck in the city, working and sweating near the concrete buildings that are supposed to provide us with a cool shade, but instead are making us feel even more desperate. The good news is that the weekend comes along and you should create a short list of interesting and fun activities that will allow you to relax, but in the same time add some thrill to your summer, without even leaving the city. So why not head to the swimming pool? Maybe there is an outdoor swimming pool in your neighborhood where you can pretend you are on vacation? Or even a bar with a pool: sounds delightful! Nevertheless, you should be aware what dangers are lurking in the water. After all, tons of people go there and you do not want to expose yourself to something you are not prepared for!

Health Risks at a Public Swimming Pool

First of all, you need to make sure that there is a lifeguard at the pool. Even if you are a good swimmer, you never know what will happen. It is important that the risk of drowning is at a minimum.

Second of all, there are tons of viruses and diseases that are easily spread at public swimming pools because of the moist and warm environment. Bacteria not only survives, but has quite a bit of fun at the pool! That is why you need to be careful when you are visiting it. Check if the pool is regularly clean. Avoid going into the pool if you have open wounds as they might get infected very easily. Also, you need to definitely use a shower before and after you go into the pool! Hopefully, we probably do not need to mention that you should not swallow pool water.

If you are eating at the pool, it is best to wait for at least half an hour before you dive into the water, and you should definitely avoid drinking alcoholic beverages. Not only will they impair your movement abilities, but it is overall not advisable to be drinking alcohol in the heat. Which brings us to the standard summer tips: wear SPF on your skin, drink tons of water and refrain from greasy or salty foods, coffee and alcohol.

Be aware that possible health risks also include athlete’s food, for example. Chlorine is one of the chemicals that take care of the disinfection of the pool. Still, high levels of chlorine in the water can irritate your eyes and skin, so try to wear swimming goggles. Sometimes poor maintenance is the reason for high levels of chlorine in the water, so try to go somewhere that you are sure about. It is best not to spend too much time in the water if you have sensitive skin, so that you can notice if any inflammation appears. The lungs can also be harmed: inhaling the fumes from pools with high levels of chlorine can create toxic conditions in the pool. Teeth can also be damaged in a highly acidic pool as the dental enamel can erode. High amounts of chlorine can be absorbed through the skin if you are exposed to it frequently which can lead to some internal organ problems.

Overall, when you are planning on a pool party at a public swimming pool, ask someone who has already visited it about the hygiene there: you want to be safe even while having fun!